Emla Patch (Lidocaine/prilocaine)

Description

Indications

This medication is a patch containing two amide-type anesthetics, lidocaine and prilocaine. This patch is applied to normal, unbroken skin to provide numbing to a small area, helping to prevent pain before specific procedures. These procedures may include inserting a needle for injections, drawing blood, or administering certain vaccinations. The patch functions by temporarily numbing the skin and the surrounding area where it is applied.

Uses and Dosage

Before applying the patch, ensure the skin is clean and dry. Remove the protective liner and place the disc on the designated site as instructed by your doctor, typically an hour before the procedure. Avoid contact with the white round part containing the medication. Press firmly along the patch edges to secure it and gently press on the center. Use a ballpoint pen to mark the time of application on the patch.

Shortly before the procedure or as directed, remove the patch and thoroughly clean the area. The duration for the patch to stay on varies by age and the type of procedure; do not exceed the recommended duration to avoid potential side effects.

Dispose of the used patch by folding it in half with the sticky sides together, and discard it out of reach of children and pets. Do not reuse the patch. Wash hands immediately after use unless treating an area on the hands.

Avoid placing the patch in the mouth or swallowing it, especially for children. Ensure it stays in place and prevent the child from putting it in their mouth. Consider using an additional covering to prevent access.

Apply this medication solely on normal, unbroken skin. Avoid using it on open wounds, cuts, scrapes, burns, rashes (including diaper rash), or mucous membranes. Refrain from applying near the eyes or in the ears. If accidental contact occurs with the eyes, rinse the affected eye thoroughly with water or saline to prevent injury due to numbness.

The numbing effect usually begins within an hour and may persist for several hours after patch removal. Take precautions to protect the area from potential injury, avoiding rubbing, scratching, or exposure to extreme temperatures until sensation returns.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• burning or itching where medication is applied
• puffiness at application site
• skin tingling
• whitening or redness to the skin

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• small red dots or purple spots where medication is applied
• eye irritation
• abdominal cramps
• difficulty breathing
• brownish or greyish skin colour
• discoloured lips and nail beds

Caution

• Before using this product, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, or any other amide anesthetics (such as bupivacaine), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
• Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a certain blood disorder (methemoglobinemia), heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or skin problems.
• If you are scheduled to undergo an MRI test, inform the testing personnel that you are using this patch, as some patches may contain metals that can cause serious burns during an MRI. Seek guidance from your doctor on whether you need to remove the patch before the test, apply a new patch afterward, and how to do so correctly.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly dizziness.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only when essential. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
• Lidocaine passes into breast milk, while it is unknown if prilocaine does. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Emla Patch is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Emla Patch patch:
  • 2.5 % / 2.5 %

FAQ

How long do Emla Patches work for?

The effects of Emla should last for at least 2 hours.

How long can you leave Emla Patches on for?

Emla can be left on the skin for up to 5 hours.

Resources

1. https://www.emla.ca/faqs/#:~:text=For%20children%20between%201%2D12,Information%20leaflet%20for%20more%20details
2. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/emla#adverseeffects
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lidocaine-and-prilocaine-topical-application-route/description/drg-20062126
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-2358-3252/emla-topical/lidocaine-prilocaine-disc-topical/details
5. https://www.drugs.com/pro/emla.html